Mexico Family Journey: The Heart of the Yucatán
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable family adventure through the heart of the Yucatán with the "Mexico Family Journey." This immersive tour offers a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, starting in Playa del Carmen and venturing into the rich cultural landscapes of Mexico. Discover the ancient wonders of Chichen Itzá, swim in sacred cenotes, and engage with the vibrant Maya community of Yaxunah. Experience the thrill of a jeep safari on Cozumel Island, and marvel at the diverse wildlife in the Celestún Biosphere Reserve. With comfortable accommodations and private transport, this small group journey ensures a seamless and enriching experience for families, complete with expert guides to enhance your exploration. Enjoy the flexibility of free time in Playa del Carmen, where you can unwind on pristine beaches or explore the local culture at your own pace. This tour promises a week of engaging activities and unforgettable memories in one of the world's most captivating regions. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Playa del Carmen
Location: Playa del Carmen
Accommodation Name: Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen
Welcome to Playa del Carmen –your arrival transfer to the hotel is included. Check in and get excited to meet your fellow travelers during a welcome meeting this evening where all families can bond before the Journey ahead.
TRANSPORT: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2: Day trip to Cozumel
Location: Cozumel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Your adventure-filled day begins with a ferry ride to the island of Cozumel. Protected by offshore reefs, Cozumel was sparsely populated, but pirates and trading ships often sought shelter and replenished their supplies here. During the Mayan period the island was used as a commercial and ceremonial centre, making it home to several small archaeological sites with deep historical significance. Travel by jeep on an island safari while learning about the land and efforts to protect the nearby reefs. Swim in the clear waters, enjoy lunch with a view, and listen to stories of the ancient Maya. Return to the hotel in Playa del Carmen where dinner will be at your leisure.
TRANSPORT: Sit back and enjoy the views from the water on your ferry ride between Playa del Carmen and Cozumel.
ACTIVITY: Set off by jeep to explore the island of Cozumel today. Begin by heading to the island's ruins with time to explore, take photos, and learn more about their historical significance. Head to the east side of Cozumel for a quick visit to the Chen Río Beach and El Mirador, offering stunning views of the ocean and great photo opportunities for the whole family. Afterwards, continue to a nearby beach club where there will be time for snorkelling and an included lunch by the water. The group will be here for about 90 minutes and your local guide will distribute and give instructions on the use of any safety equipment for snorkelling.
TRANSPORT: After a fun day exploring Cozumel, you can rest and relax on the ferry ride back to Playa del Carmen.
Day 3: Playa del Carmen/Mérida
Location: Playa del Carmen, Chichen Itza, Yaxunah, Mérida
Accommodation Name: Hotel Wyndham Merida
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, begin the journey to Merída. The first stop along the way will be to Chichen Itzá. National Geographic has ranked Chichen Itzá as the best Mayan ruin to visit in Mexico. This significant archaeological site is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, and houses 26 ruins in one location. Join an expert guide who will teach you about the site, including the pyramid, known as El Castillo or El Caracol. You’ll also see the largest Maya ball court in the Americas–Tlachtli.
Your next stop is the small Maya community of Yaxunah. Join a knowledgeable guide and learn more about this vibrant community and their rich cultural history. Prepare for a hands-on experience and participate in communal life with the artisan workers, at the horticultural plots and with beekeepers or milperos (corn farmers). Arrive in Merída in the early evening and have dinner on your own.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Meet up with a local expert and explore Chichén Itzá on a family-focused tour. Follow your trusty guides through this dramatic site, including a 30m (98 ft) high temple, known as the Pyramid of Kukulcan. This significant archaeological site is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and houses 26 Mayan Ruins in one place. Identify ruins like the Chichen Itza Pyramid also known as El Castillo, or El Caracol, the Observatory, the Temple of The Warriors, and the largest Maya ball court in the Americas–tlachtli. Wander around the ruins as your guide shares stories of the beliefs and rituals that defined this ancient Mayan civilization and use those imaginations to step back in time for a glimpse of what it might have been like to experience this sacred city and religious centre during its glory days.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Chichén Itzá and Mérida. There will be a short stop along the way at a G for Good Community Project.
ACTIVITY: The community of Yaxunah is located in the central part of the state of Yucatán, México about 19km southwest of the great Maya ruins of Chichén Itzá. This location itself is historical with ruins of colonial era haciendas and a nearby church. During your visit here, the group will be given an introduction to the community's history as well as a demonstration on how the traditional Cochinita Pibil dish is made (lots of marinated and braised pork in achiote paste, orange juice, and lime). Afterwards, try your hand at tortilla making as a family before sitting down for a delicious traditionally cooked lunch.
Day 4: Mérida
Location: Santa Bárbara, Mérida
Accommodation Name: Hotel Wyndham Merida
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Head into the jungle and marvel at the cenotes, giant holes in the earth filled with clear blue water. Considered sacred to the ancient Maya, cenotes have been studied by National Geographic Explorers like Dr. Guillermo de Anda extensively. Dive in with your family and channel your inner archeologist while exploring these waterways. Santa Barbara is home to 4 different pools to choose from, offering truly unique swimming experiences with the bonus of using a colorful small train as transport between. Return to Merída in the early evening for a free evening.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Mérida and the Santa Barbara cenotes.
ACTIVITY: It’s a kid’s dream! Think massive sinkholes full of cool, inviting water, surrounded by blue sky above. It’s no wonder it feels like you’ve entered another realm. Spend the day visiting different cenotes in Santa Bárbara and travel between them by the iconic Santa Bárbara express train, a unique experience for the entire family. Lunch will be served in between the adventurous swimming, and the spread will be Yucatán Regional staples like, Papadzules, Poc Chuc, and Sopa de Lima.
TRANSPORT: After an adventurous day at the cenotes, settle in to your private vehicle and return to Mérida.
Day 5: Celestún Biosphere Reserve / Merida
Location: Celestún Biosphere Reserve, Mérida
Accommodation Name: Hotel Wyndham Merida
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Spend part of the day observing wildlife in the Celestún Biosphere Reserve with knowledgeable local guides. In the reserve there are over 200 species of birds that migrate or live here year-round. The area also serves as a hatching ground for endangered sea turtles. During winter the wetland boasts flocks of thousands of flamingos, offering quite a sight. Be sure to remain on the lookout for other wildlife like herons, ducks and pelicans. This immersive experience offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about and appreciate diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. The afternoon back in Merída will be free to explore as you choose.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Celestún and Mérida.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Mérida and Celestún.
FREE TIME: Arrive back to Mérida in the late afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day and evening free to do as you please. Spend time as a family, walk around, and opt to grab dinner at one of the nearby local spots.
ACTIVITY: The Celestún Biosphere Reserve is located on the northwestern part of the Yucatán Peninsula. It's home to an extensive network of mangrove wetlands, making it a hot spot for birds and other wildlife. As you ride in a boat on the river with your guide, be on the lookout for the diverse populations of migratory and resident avian species. After the boat ride, there will be free time at a beach in the reserve that has a restaurant where the group will have lunch before returning back to Mérida. Please keep in mind that the presence of American Flamingos is seasonal and you will only be able to see them between November and March each year.
Day 6: Mérida/Playa del Carmen
Location: Izamal, Playa del Carmen
Accommodation Name: Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Ascend the pyramid steps of Kinich Kak Moo, Izamal’s Mayan pyramid and witness the excitement on your kids’ faces as they conquer the ancient steps and take in the panoramic views from the top. Spend time here amid the buildings of uniform yellow and enjoy some ice cream before the drive back to the coast and white sand beaches of Playa del Carmen. Return to the hotel and relax with a swim in the pool or take advantage of some of the hotel’s many amenities to unwind after your day’s journey.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Visit Izamal and the The Kinich Kakmó Pyramid, dedicated to the Sun God or "Fire Macaw". Spread across a sprawling three acres. Climb the steps to the top of this 110 ft / 34 m tall pyramid and enjoy views of the surrounding site. Dating back to the Pre-Classic period this is one of the oldest Mayan structures. The structure was also built over a cave which holds an important place in the religion and mythology of the Maya.After exploring head to town amid the yellow buildings and enjoy a nice cold ice cream.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle. Please note you will cross a time zone along this route.
Day 7: Playa del Carmen
Location: Playa del Carmen, Tulum
Accommodation Name: Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a day on your own, taking advantage of the optional activities in the area, lounging by the hotel pool, or building sandcastles on the beach. You can also choose to pre-book a visit to the Mayan city of Tulum, the only Mayan city built on a coast and one of the few protected by a wall of limestone. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for an included farewell dinner where everyone can swap stories and reflect on a week of fun and engaging exploration.
In the evening there will be an included final group dinner where everyone can swap stories and reflect on a week well spent in a deeply historical part of the world.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Enjoy a full free day as a family in Playa del Carmen. From hanging out on the beach to taking a day trip to Tulum, there are endless options to get out and enjoy this slice of paradise.
Day 8: Playa del Carmen
Location: Playa del Carmen
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotels (7 nts). -
G for Good Moment
Experience the Yaxunah Community Visit & Cochinita Pibil in Yaxuná.
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Welcome Moment
Meet your CEO and group during the Welcome Moment.
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Family Journeys Moment
Enjoy a family tour of Chichén Itzá with an expert guide.
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Santa Bárbara Cenotes
Visit the Santa Bárbara Cenotes in Mérida.
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Discover Moment
Experience Playa del Carmen during your Discover Moment.
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Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Enjoy a complimentary arrival transfer to your hotel.
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Day Tour of Cozumel
Participate in a day tour of Cozumel with ruins, snorkeling, and beach time.
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Celestún Biosphere Reserve Visit
Visit the Celestún Biosphere Reserve with a boat ride on the river and free time at the beach for water activities.
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Visit to Izamal’s Mayan Pyramid
Visit and climb the many steps of Izamal’s Mayan pyramid.
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Ice Cream Enjoyment
Enjoy an ice cream before the drive back to Playa del Carmen.
What's Not Included
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Supervision of Children
Parents/guardians are required to supervise their children at all times throughout the tour.
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Accommodation Elevators
Properties with only two stories may not have elevators installed, and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
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Meals Flexibility
Meals are generally not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you maximum flexibility.
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Spending Money
Spending money requirements will vary based on personal habits and preferences.
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays in hotels for 7 nights, providing a relaxing retreat after each day's adventures.
Transport
Private vehicle, boat, walking.
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 1 dinner
Group Size
Max 20.
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. On truck trips in Africa, aboard the expedition ship Explorer or our Galapagos yachts, while trekking in remote regions etc. food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel conveniently with private vehicles, boats, and walking, ensuring a seamless journey between destinations and activities.
Important Notes
1. All parents/guardians are required to supervise their children at all times throughout the tour and may not leave their child under the supervision of the CEO, local guides, drivers, etc. Children are not to be left unattended.
2. Please note that on all Family Adventures one adult can only accompany up to two minors. If you have over two minors planning on travelling then a second adult will be required to attend.
ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
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Group Leader
All National Geographic Family Journeys with G Adventures group trips are accompanied by two of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense; you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. ...more ...less
About Accommodation
Rooming is based on double occupancy (2 passengers / 2 beds per room); all other room configurations are on request and cannot be guaranteed. We will try to accommodate triples/quad requests whenever possible and it's important to note that rooming configuration can change from city to city and 2 single beds are the standard configuration in a room.
Please remember that hotel/lodge standards can be different from what you are used to in your home country, which is part of the appeal of adventure travel.
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What to Take
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can we expect to see at the Celestún Biosphere Reserve?
At the Celestún Biosphere Reserve, you can expect to see over 200 species of birds, including migratory and resident avian species. The area is also a hatching ground for endangered sea turtles. During the winter months, you might see flocks of thousands of flamingos, as well as other wildlife like herons, ducks, and pelicans. ...more ...less
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What activities are included during the visit to the island of Cozumel?
During the visit to Cozumel, you will embark on an island safari by jeep, explore the island's ruins, visit Chen Río Beach and El Mirador, and enjoy snorkeling at a nearby beach club. Lunch is included by the water, and your local guide will provide instructions on the use of safety equipment for snorkeling. ...more ...less
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What is the significance of the cenotes in the Yucatán Peninsula?
Cenotes are giant holes in the earth filled with clear blue water and were considered sacred to the ancient Maya. They have been extensively studied by National Geographic Explorers. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to swim in these cenotes, offering a unique experience to channel your inner archaeologist. ...more ...less
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What can we expect during the visit to the Maya community of Yaxunah?
In the Maya community of Yaxunah, you will participate in communal life and learn about the community's rich cultural history. You will have a hands-on experience preparing the traditional Cochinita Pibil dish and try your hand at tortilla making before enjoying a traditionally cooked lunch. ...more ...less
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What is special about the pyramid at Izamal?
The pyramid at Izamal, known as Kinich Kak Moo, is dedicated to the Sun God or 'Fire Macaw.' It is one of the oldest Mayan structures, dating back to the Pre-Classic period. The pyramid is 110 feet tall and offers panoramic views from the top. It is built over a cave, which holds an important place in the religion and mythology of the Maya. ...more ...less
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Mexico Family Journey: The Heart of the Yucatán
8 Days Starting and ending in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Visiting: Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Chichen Itza, Yaxunah, Mérida, Santa Bárbara, Celestún Biosphere Reserve, Izamal, Tulum ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26168
Recommended For:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 20
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
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